The joiner’s van was raided overnight on Denise Road and police are now appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Mr Lunt, 32, noticed his entire tool collection had been stolen after a trip to a Huyton timber yard, at around 8.30am this morning.

CCTV footage shows a hooded thief making off with tools at around 04.38am.

The businessman now fears his business could be jeopardised if he doesn’t get the tools back.

All tools are marked APL and Mr Lunt says he will offer a reward to anyone who can help trace the stolen items.

He said: “It was on the way back from the timber yard when I noticed a light flashing saying the back doors were open.

“When I realised all my tools had been robbed I was devastated. This is my livelihood - these low lives don’t realise I’m just trying to make ends meet, it’s tough enough as it is.”

Mr Lunt, who has been trading since 2009, says ongoing work will be affected and he will lose out financially because he will be forced to either hire out tools or subcontract work.

A spokesperson for Merseyside Police , said: “At about 12.15pm today, November 18, a report was received that offenders had forced entry to the back of the van parked on Denise Road and taken a number of power tools.

“It is believed the items were taken sometime between 0.30am and 7am today.

“Anyone with any information is asked to contact Merseyside Police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”